Illinois Senate OKs probation-lowering proposal

SPRINGFIELD — Legislation that would decrease a criminal’s time on probation if they pursued further education is moving through the Illinois Legislature.

The Senate passed the proposal with a 47-0 vote Monday. The measure would offer an offender time credits for attaining higher levels of education.

Offenders receiving a high school diploma or GED would take three months off their probation. Those receiving an associate’s degree or vocational certificate would take four months off their probation. Those receiving a bachelor’s degree would take six months off their probation.

Under the proposal, an offender would lose their education credits if they violated probation conditions.

State Sen. Bill Haine is sponsoring the measure. The Alton Democrat says it will encourage offenders to get an education.